Oilers Divisional Rival Called Out for Not Pursuing Trade for Isaac Howard

It was a huge pickup for Edmonton, who desperately needed to land a winger after losing so many in free agency, and in Howard, they've now got a 21-year old that can be a productive player on this team for many years to come.

On the surface, it was a no-brainer trade for both parties, as Edmonton land a player that's more NHL ready while the Lightning have a prospect that they don't have a fractured relationship with already.

Now however, The Hockey News have called out a rival of the Oilers, asking why the Los Angeles Kings didn't pursue Howard, as the young winger would have been a perfect fit for a team that's still looking to add young talent.

On paper, both LA and Edmonton were great fits for Howard, but with the Kings already spending plenty of money in free agency, they may be saving the asset(s) needed to land Howard for a much bigger move down the line.

Ultimately, the Kings landed Corey Perry from the Oilers in free agency, so perhaps they were satisfied with their additions on the wing, but if they're to finally take down the Oilers after four straight playoff series falling short, they should have swung for the fences on this deal.